Why use Legendary World Travel by Karen for your Destination Wedding?I have been trained with several different companies on their wedding packages and venues and how to manage groups. I have also visited many resorts, that couples choose for their destination beach weddings in the Caribbean, Mexico and Hawaii. I know the resorts and have met the wedding coordinators and their staff. I work closely with you around your budget and help you choose exactly the right location for what you are looking for. I can often get added values for your wedding; free nights, free events or credits towards your wedding. I pride myself in developing connections with my clients...and being there for you every step of the way. I will also design a website for you to share with your guests that has the information about your wedding...venue, prices, activities etc. I sell not only your wedding to them, but the destination, as many of your guest will take this opportunity as their vacation.

If you’re thinking of having a destination wedding, you may be wondering how it will differ from a non-destination wedding, if at all. The truth is that just like regular weddings, no two destination weddings are exactly alike, which is what makes them so special. There are all different types of destination weddings, from lively beach bashes to quiet, intimate elopements in the forest. Maybe you’re dreaming of a destination wedding because you and your partner love to travel, or maybe you’re opting to have a destination wedding for practical reasons instead, like getting married closer to loved ones who can’t come to you.And while it’s true that pulling off a destination wedding might require a little more open-mindedness and patience, particularly if you’re planning from very far away, I promise it will all be worth it in the end. The decision to have a destination wedding could have taken a while to get to for some couples. For others, it’s something they always knew they wanted. But what about the things you may not have thought about right away? Important things you will need to consider throughout the planning process? That’s where I come in!

Here are some of the top things couples should consider when having a destination wedding and how to tackle them.​Extending invitations:Deciding who to invite to a destination wedding can be a difficult feat, particularly for couples with large family and friend groups. The good news is there’s no need to limit your guest list just because you’re having a destination wedding. Plenty of couples opt to invite the same guests that they would for a traditional wedding. Many couples who limit invites consider a post-wedding reception when you return home, though it’s by no means required. Remember: this is your wedding, and it can be shared with whomever you choose.

Religious officiant vs. civil ceremony:As many couples choose to have their nuptials outside with a destination wedding, civil ceremonies are often preferred by couples to religious ceremonies. If you are interested in having a religious ceremony, many resorts can arrange for a local officiant to marry you. Or speak with your local religious leader to find out exactly what the religious requirements are for a marriage in the destination of your choice. If you don’t want a formal religious ceremony, many couples incorporate a religious reading into their ceremony. Or, skip religion altogether if it’s the right thing for you and your fiancé. Whatever you decide, remember to go with whatever feels authentic and right for you as a couple.​Giving guests advance notice:As a destination wedding is a financial investment for your guests and many use their vacation time to come to your wedding, it’s polite to give them ample notice so that they may plan and budget accordingly. They may also want to plan an extended vacation following the wedding, so be sure to inform guests of the resort and destination of choice as early as possible. Ideally, guests should receive save-the-date notices 9-12 months prior. If you’re planning a short engagement, it’s polite to at least give invitees 6-8 weeks, which is in line with when you would send out wedding invitations for a traditional wedding. So don’t worry if you’re planning your event last minute; you can still make your dream wedding happen with a little coordination!

Honeymoon plans:One of the many great benefits of a destination wedding is that you likely won’t have to go far to enjoy your dream honeymoon. Still, it’s good to keep in mind that many of your guests may extend their stay after your wedding, so it’s important to consider whether you would be okay running into family and friends while you honeymoon. If you’re looking for more privacy but don’t want to lose the perks of booking with your resort, many companies will transfer resort credits to their properties in different locations.Planning a destination wedding may seem like a lot of work, but it’s actually a lot less stress than all that’s involved in planning an at-home wedding. And of course, all the hard work is worth it for the amazing experience, memories and fantastic photos you’re sure to bring home with you!